The 109th Nebraska legislative session is officially underway.
We're keeping a careful watch on key legislation that could impact economic development, housing, workforce, and community development in Buffalo County and across Nebraska.
Here's a look at what bills we're currently watching:
Economic Development & Workforce
- LB719 – Nebraska Rural Projects Act
Expands eligible project costs to include infrastructure improvements (rights-of-way, rail spurs, utilities) that benefit business parks.
Impact: Could accelerate rural business park development and attract industrial investment. - LB847 – Nebraska Registered Apprenticeship Act
Creates a state office and council for registered apprenticeships; adjusts unemployment tax allocations.
Impact: Strengthens workforce development pipelines for manufacturing, healthcare, and skilled trades. - LB999 – Business Innovation and Startup Commission Act
Establishes a commission focused on fostering innovation and startups.
Impact: Signals potential new resources and programs for entrepreneurs and tech-based businesses.
Housing & Community Development
- LB768 – Nebraska Affordable Housing Act & Related Programs
Expands powers for NIFA; allows partnerships with nonprofits; removes certain energy code requirements for NIFA projects.
Impact: Could streamline housing development and financing options, especially for rural and workforce housing. - LB819 – Workforce Housing Investment Acts
Raises cost caps for workforce housing (owner-occupied up to $375K, rental up to $300K) and extends grant programs until 2037.
Impact: Addresses housing shortages for middle-income workers—critical for talent retention and growth. - LB839 – Municipal Density and Missing Middle Housing Act
Requires municipalities to report multifamily housing construction under Fair Housing Act standards.
Impact: Adds compliance requirements for cities; may influence planning and zoning decisions. - LB840 – Nebraska Affordable Housing Act Accessibility Requirements
Requires multifamily housing projects seeking Affordable Housing Trust Fund assistance to meet accessibility standards (20% mobility, 10% hearing/vision).
Impact: Improves inclusivity but may increase construction costs for developers.
Infrastructure & Redevelopment
- LB801 – Building and Energy Code Updates
Updates state building codes to 2024 standards; requires local codes to conform or default to state code.
Impact: Could affect construction costs and timelines for developers and municipalities. - LB988 – Community Development Law Changes
Tightens blight definitions and restricts TIF use and fund pooling.
Impact: May limit redevelopment flexibility and financing strategies for downtown or infill projects.
As the session progresses, the Development Council for Buffalo County will continue to monitor bill introductions and legislative activity closely over the coming week.
We’ll be engaging with our investors and board members to gather input, assess potential impacts, and ultimately take action on policies that support long-term growth and protect the best interests of Buffalo County.
